Each week we ask small businesses key questions.
Here, we speak to Craig Donoghue, who runs One Stop Waste Solutions in Aberdeen
How and why did you start in business?
I left Glasgow Caledonian University with a chemistry degree in the mid 1990s, which was not the best time to find a job. However, through a graduate-into-work scheme I managed to get a job as a technical support chemist, which involved driving a van around Scotland packing and collecting waste chemicals. My career in the waste management industry had begun.
As time passed, I took on more responsible roles, moving first into sales and then, five years later, becoming hazardous waste manager for a national company in Aberdeen. In 2006, I established One Stop Waste Solutions.
How did you get to where you are today?
I have had to devote long hours and a lot of dedication and hard work to the business, but it has all paid off. Today, our team of seven provides customers with a single source of supply which not only ensures day-to-day waste collections are reliable, competitive and compliant, but also helps them develop recycling opportunities and implement waste strategies.
Who helped you?
Without the support of my wife, Jacquie, I would have struggled. She provided that objective sounding-board every business needs. My business partner, Neil Sharp, has been invaluable for his experience, and as the business developed and we took on more employees, so the advice and support provided by the Federation of Small Businesses has saved us from costly mistakes.
What has been your biggest mistake?
Running a small business makes you pretty resilient so while mistakes are inevitable, every effort must be made to limit the damage, learn the lessons, plan very carefully in future and move on mentally. Fortunately, we have no disasters to report.
What is your greatest achievement?
In 2016/17, we ran a very successful Not-For-Landfill campaign, which highlighted the local organisations, charities and social enterprises that can help reduce the amount of waste being needlessly dumped by recycling, reusing or repairing it.
If you were in power in government, what would you change?
We have to accept Brexit is coming, and rather than scoring political points we should be focused on the opportunities this presents.
What do you still hope to achieve?
Having started and run a successful business, there is an itch to see if I could do it again but I do wonder if I am still brave enough. Also, I would like to give something back by using my business knowledge and skills to help a local charity or social enterprise.
What do you do to relax?
It might not sound relaxing, but I enjoy running, swimming and cycling. Last September, I was very proud to complete the Tiree UltraMarathon and survive.
What are you currently reading, listening to or glued to on the TV?
I have been soaking up McMafia, which has given me some interesting, transferable business ideas.
What do you waste your money on?
Running shoes. I have a cupboard full of them.
How would your friends describe you?
A bit too sarcastic and doesn’t take himself too seriously.
What would your enemies say about you?
Who cares?
What do you drive and dream of driving?
I drive a VW Passat and am waiting for an affordable electric car that can handle my business mileage without making me look like Mr Bean.